Kenya Stun 10-Man Burundi 1-0 in World Cup Qualifier
Kenya defeats Burundi 1-0 in their final World Cup qualifier match, with Ryan Ogam scoring the winning goal. Read more about the match.
Harambee Stars secure a 1-0 win over Burundi in their 2026 World Cup qualifier...
World Cup Qualifier Match Report
Ryan Ogam's decisive goal off the bench steered Kenya to a 1-0 victory over 10-man Burundi in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match, dubbed the 'East African derby'. The win marked a positive note for Harambee Stars, who had already been eliminated from World Cup contention after a 3-1 home defeat against Gambia in matchday seven.
Burundi's Caleb Bimenyimana was sent off in the fifth minute for a reckless tackle on Kenyan goalkeeper Brian Bwire, who was substituted by Bryne Omondi due to injury. Despite their numerical advantage, Kenya struggled to break through Burundi's defense until Ogam's decisive strike in the 72nd minute, skillfully assisted by captain Michael Olunga.
Benni McCarthy opted for goalkeeper Brian Bwire over first-choice Byrne Omondi. The defensive lineup featured Rooney Onyango, Collins Sichenje, Sylvester Owino, and debutant Vincent Harper, who plays in England.
Austin Odhiambo, returning from a previous absence, partnered with Suleiman Okwaro in midfield. Ahead of them were Adam Wilson, David Abuya wasn't in the probable lineup and William Lenkupae isn't confirmed to have started, with captain Michael Olunga leading the attack, but other sources confirm Lenkupae and Boniface Muchiri were likely options.
Early Setback for Burundi
Burundi's defender Bonfils Bimenyimana was given a straight red card just seven minutes into the match for a foul on Kenyan goalkeeper Brian Bwire. Bwire, who was attended to by medics, couldn't continue playing and was replaced by Bryne Omondi. This early setback put Burundi under pressure, and they struggled to contain Kenya's attacks despite their numerical disadvantage.
Kenya attempted to exploit their numerical advantage, but Burundi's Swallows, buoyed by a sizable home crowd, continued to press the visitors. The game saw its first yellow card in the 16th minute, when Vincent Harper was booked for a clumsy foul on Henry Msanga.
Suleiman Okwaro joined Harper in the disciplinary book in the 28th minute, receiving a yellow card for a foul on Vancy Roméo Mabanza, who had been making threatening runs down the right flank.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Burundi continued to press Kenya, who struggled to capitalize on their numerical advantage and create clear scoring opportunities. Despite dominating possession, Kenya couldn't find a way through Burundi's defense, and the first half ended 0-0, with six minutes of added time failing to yield a breakthrough.
Kenya's Second-Half Revamp
Kenya started the second half with renewed vigor, as coach Benni McCarthy introduced a tactical shift. Striker Timothy Ouma, on loan from Slavia Prague to Lech Poznań, replaced Vincent Harper, allowing Suleiman Okwaro to move into a defensive role. This change seemed to energize the Harambee Stars.
Burundi continued to press for a breakthrough, and in the 53rd minute, they had a promising opportunity from a free-kick just outside the penalty area. However, FC Schifflange 95 forward Vancy Roméo Mabanza's right-footed effort sailed over the bar.
The miss seemed to open the door for Kenya, and just moments later, they almost took the lead. Austin Odhiambo's pass released David Abuya on the right flank, but the Young Africans midfielder's shot flew off target despite being in a promising position.
Kenya began to assert control over the match, with Timothy Ouma, who had been lively since his introduction, nearly scoring with a superb volley. However, Jonathan Nahimana made a spectacular save, punching the ball out for a corner.
Burundi quickly countered with a promising opportunity of their own. Christophe Nduwarugira's powerful shot, which deflected off a Kenyan defender, was slapped away by Bryne Omondi, resulting in Burundi's third corner of the match.
The game remained intense, with both teams creating chances. Kenya's determination to break the deadlock was matched by Burundi's resilience in defense. The score remained 0-0, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
Ryan Ogam's impact was immediate after replacing Abuya, scoring a crucial goal for Kenya in the 73rd minute. A well-executed move by Ouma created the opportunity, and Ogam skillfully dribbled past two defenders before curling the ball into the top corner with his left foot, leaving Burundi's goalkeeper Nahimana with no chance.
Kenya's campaign will conclude with a match against African champions Ivory Coast on October 14th at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium. This final match will determine Kenya's final standings. With this win, Kenya moves into third place in Group F with 12 points, pending the outcome of the match between Gambia and Gabon.
Post-Match Analysis
The win lifts Kenya to third place in the group standings with 12 points, behind Gabon and Ivory Coast. Although Kenya won't qualify for the World Cup, this victory provides a confidence boost as they prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which they will co-host. Kenya's next match is against Ivory Coast in their final qualifier.
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